Dharawal

Today was spent in the vicinity of Dharawal State Conservation Reserve and Nature Reserve. Gorgeous example of  Sydney Sandstone. The area lies in the Woronora Plateau with the geology comprising mostly of quartzose sandstone, with outcrops of shale and ironstone. So many gorgeous swimming holes, waterfalls, great bike riding, beautiful vegetation and rich cultural importance. 'Dharawal' refers to the language group of the local Aboriginal people. The local rock art is amazing, worthy of protection and respect. I can't wait to take my family to this wonderful swimming hole. I was there on a turbid day. I believe it becomes clearer during drier periods.

We drove past a Wianamatta shale area today. You could see the rich vegetation change, especially the growth of  Gymea Lillies, Doryanthes excelsa.  It is hard to find good examples of shale outcrops. Shale tends to form flatter topography with rich soil compared to Sydney Sandstone. The rich soil and simple topography of shale often results in the area being cleared for farming and buildings. Sydney sandstone has partly been saved due to the nature of the rugged stepped terrain with infertile soils making development and farming difficult. Today really was an eyesight full of waterfalls, rock outcrops and  great vegetation. I'm glad this place is protected in the NSW reserve system.